Rediscovering the Creative Call of Christians with Jarrod Richey

What role do the arts really play in a classical Christian education? For many of us, “art class” growing up felt like a filler – something fun, but hardly central to learning. Music, theater, and visual art were often seen as side activities, not essential to shaping minds and hearts. But as guest Jarrod Richey reminds us, that view couldn’t be further from the historic Christian tradition.

Jarrod – music teacher at Geneva Academy, author of Bach to the Future and editor of Raise the Song – makes the case that the creative arts are not extras but vital ways we reflect our Creator and form our children’s affections. He explains why hymn-singing, music literacy, and participatory art are as essential to discipleship as books and doctrine, helping students love what is true, good, and beautiful in tangible ways.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Why the church historically led the way in the arts—and why we need to reclaim that vision today
  • How hymns carry theology, unity, and gratitude across generations
  • Why music literacy is a core skill, not an optional enrichment
  • Practical ways families and schools can weave rich music and art into daily life

The arts aren’t just about self-expression – they are about imaging God and passing on the faith. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about recovering beauty in education, worship, and the home.

Resources Mentioned:

Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:

The Herzog Foundation
The Champion Group
ZipCast
Wilson Hill Academy
Life Architects Coaching

Jarrod Richey teaches music and choir at Geneva Academy in West Monroe, Louisiana; author of BACH to the Future: Fostering Music Literacy Today; editor of Raise the Song: A Classical Christian Guide to Music Education and Let Joy Resound: A Singing School Hymnal; Academic Dean of the Redeemer School of the Arts.

The Redeemer School of the Arts offers one‑ and two‑year Arts Certificate programs in music, culinary, and visual arts concentrations. It trains worshipers in the arts to refine their skills in artistic excellence while grounding them in the truths of who they are as “homo adorans.”

Connect with Jarrod: